“I can’t accept any nods or recognition without acknowledging my staff and our loyal guests who keep coming back to support us,” said Chef and Owner James Trees.
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Esther’s Kitchen, the acclaimed restaurant in The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas from Chef and Owner James Trees, has been recognized by The Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand as part of The Michelin Guide Southwest selection announced Wednesday, Aug. 26, at a ceremony at Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
The recognition comes as The Michelin Guide marks its return to Las Vegas after a 17-year absence, with the inaugural Michelin Guide Southwest covering restaurants in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah.
Since 1997, The Michelin Bib Gourmand has “celebrated restaurants worldwide that serve exceptional food at great value,” according to The Michelin Guide. The requirements to qualify for a Bib Gourmand include eateries that excel at creating multicourse meals enjoyed at an affordable price point.



“There are many chefs who work their entire careers to earn recognition from The Michelin Guide, and it’s an honor for which I will always be grateful. I can’t accept any nods or recognition without acknowledging my staff and our loyal guests who keep coming back to support us,” said Trees.
Since opening in 2018, Esther’s Kitchen has become a beloved neighborhood restaurant helping to legitimize The Arts District with its seasonal Italian dishes. After a career with incredible culinary experiences, Trees chose to open his first independent restaurant in his hometown, naming it after his Great Aunt Esther.
All pastas, breads and pizzas are made in-house daily. The menu changes seasonally. Highlights: sourdough bread with nine spreads, Cauliflower Alla Romana, Beef and Pork Meatballs, Central Milling flour pastas, wood-fired sourdough pizzas, Pan Roasted Mary’s Chicken, Pachamama Farms Pork Chop, Whiskey Caramel Butterscotch Budino and Mocha Affogato.
Esther’s Kitchen is at 1131 S. Main St. and open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays-Fridays for lunch, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays for brunch and 5-11 p.m. daily for dinner. More: EsthersLV.com














